Ryan Turell, Orthodox Basketball Star, Joins Israel’s Premier League

Orthodox basketball player Ryan Turell has signed with Ironi Ness Ziona in the Israeli Basketball Premier League, marking a significant milestone in his career and the league. This league represents the pinnacle of professional basketball in Israel, and Turell's addition is a momentous event.

Turell, the leading scorer in the NCAA during his senior year at Yeshiva University, made headlines in 2022 by becoming the first Orthodox Jewish player to play in the NBA's minor G League. Over two seasons with the Motor City Cruise, affiliated with the Detroit Pistons, Turell attracted a dedicated following of Orthodox fans, both locally and on the road. His return to New York on Purim last year was particularly memorable, drawing considerable attention and support.

Now, Turell is achieving another dream: playing professional basketball in Israel. “I’m very excited and honored to be a part of Ironi Ness Ziona, and can’t wait to start playing!” Turell shared in a team press release. “It’s always been a dream of mine to play in Israel, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to do it with Ness Ziona. I can’t wait to meet all of the fans; it’s an amazing feeling.”

During his time with the Motor City Cruise, Turell played in 54 games, averaging 14.2 and 11.9 minutes per game over his two seasons. He scored an average of 4.4 points per game, showcasing a solid three-point shooting percentage of .355. His standout performance came in his final game with the team, where he scored 34 points and grabbed six rebounds on March 23.

Turell joins Ness Ziona, a team located in central Israel south of Tel Aviv. Despite finishing the 2023-2024 regular season with a losing record, Ness Ziona advanced to the playoffs, reaching the quarterfinals. The 2024-2025 season kicks off in October, and Turell's arrival is highly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.

Brad Turell, Ryan’s father, told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that this move to Israel doesn't eliminate the possibility of a future return to the G League—or even the NBA, which remains a long-held dream for Turell. He emphasized that Ryan is keeping “all options open,” adding, “He certainly hasn’t given up on his dream and goal to be the first Orthodox Jew to make the NBA.”

Israel welcomes Ryan Turell with open arms, ready to support and cheer for him as he embarks on this exciting new chapter in his basketball journey. Share this inspiring story and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on Israel and its remarkable people.